Dear students, 

As you may be aware, four Temple students were recently victims of an incident of arson, which occurred at a residence outside of the patrol zone on Tuesday, Nov. 15. Temple University Public Safety can share that this morning, a Temple University Police Department (TUPD) detective played a key role in apprehending the suspect in the case. 

Following the initial response and investigation by the Philadelphia Police Department, the case was transferred to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). TUPD detectives assisted in various investigative aspects such as locating and sharing video footage in and around the area where the suspect may have traveled. This morning, a TUPD detective located the subject, called our dispatchers for backup, TUPD police officers responded and the team took the suspect into custody. The suspect was then turned over to the Philadelphia Police Department and ATF. We are immensely grateful for the diligent and persistent efforts of our TUPD detectives and police officers and the collaboration and teamwork with Philadelphia police and ATF. Their tireless efforts truly made all the difference. 

We recognize the impact that crimes like this have on our community. We encourage anyone who has been affected by incidents like this to reach out to Tuttleman Counseling Services for support. 

We also urge all members of the Temple community to contact Temple Police at 215-204-1234 with any questions regarding available safety resources and the university’s commitment to protecting its community. 

Best regards, 

Jennifer D. Griffin 
Vice President of Public Safety at Temple University